Early Life and Career
Franklin Carmichael, a renowned Canadian artist, was born on May 4, 1890, in Orillia, Ontario. As the youngest original member of the
Group of Seven, Carmichael's artistic journey began at the age of twenty when he entered the Ontario College of Art in Toronto.
Artistic Influences and Style
Carmichael's work was greatly influenced by
Tom Thomson, with whom he shared a studio space in 1914. His style, characterized by
watercolour landscapes, often depicted the serene beauty of Ontarian scenery. As
Emily Carr noted, Carmichael's work was "A little pretty and too soft, but pleasant."
Notable Achievements and Exhibitions
* Founded the Ontario Society of Painters in Watercolour (1925) alongside A.J. Casson and F.H. Brigden
* Established the Canadian Group of Painters (1933), which several members of the Group of Seven later joined
* Taught at the Ontario College of Art from 1932 to 1945
Legacy and Museum Collections
Carmichael's work can be found in various museum collections, including
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection (Kleinburg, Ontario). One of his notable pieces, "Lone Lake" (1929), sold for $330,400 at a Joyner Waddington's spring art auction in Toronto.
Selected Paintings and Collections
Conclusion
Franklin Carmichael's contributions to Canadian art are undeniable. As a pioneering member of the Group of Seven, his watercolour landscapes continue to inspire and delight audiences. His legacy can be explored further through
his collection on WahooArt, showcasing the beauty of Canadian art.
More on Franklin Carmichael's Wikipedia page